Spinal Decompression Therapy (SDT) is a non-surgical treatment option used by doctors, physical therapists, and other health professionals to address conditions that cause pain in the cervical and lumbar spine.

During an SDT session, the patient is set up on a machine that pulls and relaxes a targeted area of the lumbar or cervical spine, adjusted for the individual’s body and needs. The gentle expansion of the spine decompresses the discs between each vertebra by creating negative pressure within the disc. This pulls any ruptured or herniated disc material back inside the disc, along with fluids and nutrients that promote accelerated healing. Disc problems are often the underlying cause of common, treatment-resistant back conditions, such as sciatica and nerve compression. At Restore Physical Therapy, we use Hill DT’s Spinal Decompression Table, which uses load-sensing technology to constantly measure and monitor the treatment force—dramatically reducing muscle guarding and soreness, and increasing positive outcomes.

SDT is extremely valuable in treating chronic back pain due to its ability to adapt to each individual and effectively treat the source of pain. If you have back pain that just won’t go away, ask your therapist about adding Spinal Decompression Therapy to your treatment plan.